CHATTERBOX

Learning to run

2017-03-10T15:16:00.001+02:00

I hate running. I hate that my muscles hurt. I hate that I can't breathe properly. I hate that I sweat. I hate that EVERYONE else makes it look so easy. It's hard. At the beginning of January I could run 300 metres maximum before I'd walk and give up. This is just me recording my running journey.

Why did I decide to start running? My husband does the Two Oceans Half Marathon every year; he is a natural. He didn't need much training and he does it well. We thought it would be funny if I applied for an entry to this year's race. I got in. My world came crashing down. I agreed that if I got in, I would train as if I'm running it but if by mid-March I can't at least run 15 kilometres at a decent pace, I'd sell my entry.

Many people are saying that's the wrong attitude to have and that I should put my mind to it and do it. I need to be realistic. I run extremely slowly and I started my training on 9 January 2017. Let's see how this goes.

My kit:
For my birthday, my 1-and-a-half-year-old son bought me a pair of New Balance running tights. My sister-in-law got me a New Balance running t-shirt, cap and socks to match. So I have one full outfit. I then bought a pair of Adidas tights and running t-shirt just to have at least two to alternate for the Monday and Wednesday. I bought a pair of Asics running shoes because the ones recommended for me were R2500 - I'm not ready for that kind of commitment yet. So my R800 (on sale) Asics need to take me through the next couple of runs, and only when I enjoy running, will I take it further and invest in the real deal. I also now own a Samsung Gear Fit watch (thanks, husband) - to track runs. I still have to figure out how to operate it properly. I didn't invest in those fancy watches all the runners have. I've got one sports bra that I have to wash and re-use at each training session - I've just ordered another pair to keep me going. I still have to buy the Itheko running t-shirt, then I think I'm sorted for now.

9 January 2017
Joined Itheko Sports Athletic Club's 8-week running programme. It's for people who don't run/who think they can't run and just general beginners. We did about 4 kilometres at a very slow pace. VERY SLOW. So slow that even I could run the full 4km without needing to rest.

11 January 2017
Today we did uphill running. It was torture. We ran up past the Baxter and even further up towards UCT. Worst day of my life. But I managed and came back alive...just about.

So this is the general schedule - Monday and Wednesday you train (average 5km each time) till your 8 weeks are done, then you do your first 10km race.

Fast forward to 20 February 2017. I'm on week 7 and still going strong. I still struggle to run - it's only easier in the sense that I can push myself because I know I can do it (because I've done it before), but it's not easier in the sense that I can do it all more effortlessly. I still don't enjoy running, and every time I do it I hate myself. After a run I feel proud of myself... but then the hate kicks in at the next session again. I want to love running... but I'm still a long way from that.

A bit of background: I'm average height but above average weight ( I love eating). I don't do any fitness activities or training. I joined a gym but went for one month then never went back. I loved the vibe and the feeling at the finish line at the Two Oceans Marathon whenever I went to support my husband and his brother-in-law and always wondered what it would be like to have that feeling they have when they finish. Maybe I won't get there this year, maybe I will. Next week is my first 10-kilometre race so I'll update as I go along.

1 March 2017 - 10km Lighthouse Run
It was torture. I started out too fast because I got carried away with what everyone else was doing. I ran with the constant fear of being the last one. After the first water point (3km) I was dead. I wanted to give up. I was running at 7,5 minutes a kilometre, which was way faster than my training ever went. So I walked a bit and bumped into someone who trains with me. We ran together and it went so well. We kept encouraging each other and we made it to the end. It wasn't easy...but it was doable. We were probably one of the last people through the finish line, but we made it.

Fast forward to 10 March 2017. Tomorrow I'm doing the Constantia 15km run. Bear in mind my last race (that was also my first race) was a week ago at the lighthouse. So I'm taking a huge chance here. I'll update tomorrow - whether I finish or not.

11 March 2017 - The Constantia Village K-Way 15km
To give you a bit of background, my brother-in-law is a coach at Itheko (Neezaaam Mohamed) and he agreed to run the race with me, at my pace and guide me through it so that he can see where I'm at and if I can manage the Two Oceans Half Marathon.

I'm always very anxious before any run - training or race- and this time was no different. Once the race started we headed off VERY slowly. So slowly that we were the last people in the race. I was getting worried and kept looking behind us. Neezaam told me not to worry about that and we kept going. As we kept going we started passing a few people and some people even joined us. When we got to the first waterpoint I rejoiced and thought it was a resting opportunity. Neezaam said, "no stopping, keep moving, you can do a brisk walk while you have your water." And then off we went again. The race had lots of hills so it did feel like torture, but I just kept at it. By now our group was about 10 people running together - and easy pace and planned short walks in between. By the time we reached 12km I felt like I needed to give up, so I slowed down and cheated whenever Neezaam wasn't looking (I stole walks).

We had 500 metres to go and I was ready to quit. He said, "Are you mad? You're at the finish line??!!" I didn't care - I wanted to walk. But as we turned the corner I saw all the people cheering and my husband (he had already finished) standing ready to take a pic of me coming in. I don't know where the energy came from but I started running like the most confident person in the race - haha. i finished with my head held high and a medal in my hand - 2hrs12 minutes. And Neezaam told me our goal is to finish at 2hr15.

Even though I literally had a personal coach all the way, I was still proud because he said he was expecting me to complain at every kilometre that I wanted to stop - and I only started the complaints after 12km.

His feedback was that I can do Two Oceans but I will have to work hard and I'll have to to get to a 8-8:30 mins per km comfortable pace to manage.

Kit update
I bought a new pair of running shoes - I forgot to mention that in my first 10km race I wore orthotics - bad idea. I got a blister within 3km so I removed them. The blister went away but popped up again after the 15km Constantia run. So I got worried that this will happen at Two Oceans. I popped into the Adidas Outlet store and found a pair of shoes I've been eyeing for a while - not for running, but because I loved the colours - they're called Adidas Pureboost X. I wasn't willing to Pay R2500 for them, though. Lo and behold, two days later I'm in there again and it's marked R899 - woohoo! I bought them and they are sooooo comfortable. One issue I have with them is that they come off too easily. Someone stepped on my heel while running and the shoe came right off. This also happened when I tripped on a speedbump. So I'm a bit concerned about this for race day - I believe the crowds are huge and I can't afford to have my shoes coming off. There's also no way to tie it like you normally tie running shoes. I also bought a new pair of tights from New Balance in Access Park - they feel good.

*** After this race I switched to the "advanced" training groups on Tuesdays and Thursdays where they had a Two Oceans programme. I finished the 8-week beginners programme I mentioned earlier. Their programme divided runners into their ideal finishing time Two Oceans. So it's those who want to finish in under 2hrs (what??), 2h15 , 2h30, 2h45 and 3hr (this is the slowest group - where I am).

Bear in mind I joined this group when they were halfway through their training so I missed a lot of the essential training, like the Southern Cross route and all the LSD (long, slow distance) runs on weekends.

18 March - Ravensmead 15km
A week later I tackled this 15km flat race. The club decided they want to have the biggest bus (a bus is basically a big group of people running together at the same pace). They said the pace would be the same as the slowest group. I STRUGGLED! I was convinced they were runnig way faster than our slow group pace. I thought the race would be a bit easier because it was all flat - not the case. I kept up with the bus, just about. I was always at the back and always pushing to catch up. Again, at the end I managed to finish strong because I saw the crowd cheering our huge bus. We finished at 2h15. I felt a bit despondent after this run - like I wasn't getting better.

21 March - track training at Vygieskraal
We spent the morning running around a field - starting out slowly, then pushing and giving 80% effort (fast for me) and then slowing down to walk to the start, then starting again. We did this 5 times (after a 5-lap warm up). This was tough - but I don't mind it too much because I know there's a break to walk - whereas with running a route or a race, you don't get a break.

26 March - my first LSD - 18km
We met at Green Point Urban Park and ran to Camps Bay, up Kloof Nek (a steep, long road). I enjoyed this run. I'm not sure if it was because the pace was doable or if I was just having a good day, but at no point did I wish I wasn't there...which was a first for me. When we got to around 16km I started struggling. I felt like just walking the rest. so I did a walk-run routine. This run made me feel more confident about Two Oceans.

After this run, everyone was encouraging me to do a race in Gordon's Bay the next weekend. It was a 21km race that was a good training run for Two Oceans. I didn't do it. Partly because I felt scared and partly because it was a mission to get there and arrange a babysitter and all that other admin. I don't know if that was a bad move on my part but here I am with no 21km experience.

I then did the next LSD which was a 15km run from the club house (Rosebank) to Claremont, up Wynberg Hill and to Kirstenbosch Gardens top gate, then the 3km finish stretch of the Two Oceans run (to UCT) and then back to the Club House. It was tough. I ended up running the first part on my own because I fell behind on Wynberg Hill. A good taste of what's to come.

This brings me to my first race completely on my own:

9 April - Central Athletics Challenge - 10km
The race started out slowly because there are quite a few bottlenecks. Being the lazy person that I am, I didn't make an effort to pass it, I just went with it and enjoyed the walk because I was too afraid to start running. Eventually I had to start. The first 3-4kms are always tough for me. It's the section where I want to give up and I feel like I'm not going to make it. Once I pass that phase I'm OK-ish. Before I knew it I saw the first waterpoint - 3km down... yay! I saw a few buses that I was tempted to join but I ran past them and just kept going. By 6km I started feeling a but tired but I kept on. When I saw we only had 2km to go, I felt glad. But in any race, even 1km feels like forever. I checked the time and felt despondent again. I was already approaching 1hr15. I finished the race at 1h30mins. When I got to the finish line it looked like everyone had already finished. It made me feel disappointed because I know I should have been faster. Whether it was the walking at the beginning or the fact that I was just slow - I'll never know. Either way I got my medal and this was the last race before the big day.

We will do our last training on Tuesday 11 April (an easy 5km, they say). We'll see...

* The training was a 5km run but it was fast. So my muscles are aching a bit. Hopefully it'll recover for the weekend - because that brings us to the Two Oceans Marathon...

15 April - Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon (half)
Nerves, nerves, nerves. We're all lined up in Claremont Main Road singing the national anthem and it's almost 6am. I'm in the E seeding - so, right at the back. The gun goes at 6am and group A heads off. At 6:10am another gun goes and B, C and D head off. So now it's our turn. I'm feeling super emotional because I'm doing this big race on my own and everyone I know already started running at 6:10am. And off we go...

It's a slow start with lots of walking in between because of the crowds, we head up Protea Drive towards Edinburgh Drive. No complaints...yet. As we get onto Edinburgh drive, the road just keeps getting steeper and steeper. This isn't ideal for me. We just started running and I'm not even warm..and I haven't found my rhythm yet. I struggle up the hill and notice how I'm moving further and further to the back of the race. It's not looking good. I see one of the Itheko coaches come past me with a girl in my training group - he's helping her out and I think I should join them so that I can at least get out of this situation. I couldn't even keep up with them. By the time I reached the top of Wynberg Hill I felt like giving up and just getting an Uber home. While I was deciding what I'm going to do, I just kept running. I was wearing one of those bands that show you where you need to be in the race at particular times. I wasn't making the cut. I started noticing the crowd behind me thinning out and the sweeper car lurking in the background. I spotted a couple that looked like they knew what they were doing so I tried to run near them.

I eventually got to a loop where the people ahead of me were coming past me so I could see some people I recognised. As I got to round the corner, I ran the same way they were so now I could see all the people still coming on behind me. That's when I spotted the "Cut-off bus". This is the pace setter running with the people who want to make it for cut off (i.e. they want to finish the race, even if they come in a second before cut off). This is when I decided I needed to pull up my socks. I needed to stay ahead of this bus, so that if I struggle later, I can still fall back to the bus. But if I run with the bus and can't keep up, then chances are I won't finish the race in time.

So I kept going. I ran Ladies Mile - it's all a blur because I just kept thinking about what lies ahead (Southern Cross). People always talk about how tough it is and this bothered me throughout the run - whether or not I can make it up there. Once I reached the 10km mark, I knew the infamous road was just ahead. Bear in mind, I was already on 1hr32 minutes by now. If you do the math... it didn't look good for me making cut-off.

I reached Southern Cross Drive. I tried to keep a steady pace and just find a rhythm. It felt like I had a good plan but it didn't last long. After about 400 metres I needed to walk. I kept the walk-run routine for a few more minutes and then saw the 11km mark. This was exciting because I realised I already passed a kilometre of Southern Cross. I kept going at this pace and by some miracle, I made it to the top. With a lump in my throat and watery eyes I gave myself a nod of approval. I remember my husband telling me I mustn't be fooled into thinking it's all downhill from here. So I kept that in mind, had some water and Coke from the stand and tried to pick up the pace a little. I figured, I managed Southern Cross - I might as well push to finish this race. The sun was out and it started getting a bit uncomfortable, but I just kept moving.

Once I reached the Rhodes Drive descent, I was on a mission. I started pushing downhill at a pace I never knew I could run. I started moving past so many people I saw ahead of me, and I smiled, and thought, "I'm actually doing this. I might just finish this race in time." I started hearing people shout, "12 minutes to cut off at 18km" This meant that if I didn't reach that point in 12 minutes, I wouldn't be allowed to continue. I figured I should reach that point a little sooner so that the time I have left means I have 10 minutes per kilometre till the end (30 minutes for 3 kilometres). This should be enough time for me to walk at certain points if I'm tired - because by this point I was knackered. I passed the 18 kilometre mark and kept going. I needed to walk in between - I couldn't believe they'd make the end of this race filled with uphills!!

When I heard someone shouting, "Come on!! 1 more kilometre!!" I thought, "You've got this." I started smiling again but this time it was an emotional I'm-going-to-cry smile. I couldn't believe I was reaching the entrance to UCT. I could hear the music and all the people cheering. I pulled myself together and started running like it was the easiest thing in the world (haha, things we do when there are spectators). I reached the grass and heard the cheers - I'm sad that I didn't even look around to take it all in. I just looked at the finish line and kept running towards it.

When I reached it I just started crying. And I still can't believe I made it. My time was 3 hours, 6 minutes. Not an amazing time by running standards - but for me it was a miracle! I finished 4 minutes before cut-off. The feeling was amazing. I completed a Two Oceans Half Marathon - my first 21km run...ever.

The journey wasn't an easy one. I had to sacrifice a lot of time, arrange a lot of babysitters and my husband and I had to alternate some races and training days so that one of us is home with the little one. Our parents also sacrificed a lot of their time to look after our son while we attended races or when we trained till late. I can't remember when last I had a full week of cooking - we ate at our folks' houses a lot of the time because we were tired or just didn't have time to prepare meals. So none of this came easily. But I'm glad that this four-month sacrifice paid off and I achieved my goal and my husband beat the time he wanted to do.

Do I love running? I can't say I love it. I don't mind it. I still curse myself while I'm doing it. But the feeling after you finish something you were never able to do before, is what makes you keep going back.

Thanks for sharing this journey with me. I wish you well on yours, if you ever choose to embark on it.

Halaal restaurants in Cape Town

2016-11-23T10:24:00.001+02:00

**Last updated 29 March 2021

This is my list of halaal restaurants/cafés in Cape Town. Feel free to add ones I don't know about or let me know if the status of any of these has changed.

IMPORTANT: Please note that towards the bottom (below the line) are other restaurants (not halaal certified) that have meat from halaal suppliers. I've added these because it may be useful to some (like employers wanting to give a work function that caters for all their staff). Please call and confirm either way as things may have changed.

*I'll upload pics as I get them.

Image supplied

Coffee Cream is a book shop/cafe with an extensive breakfast, lunch and dinner menu. They even offer a variety of mocktails, milkshakes and hot drinks (including great coffee). While you're waiting for your meal, you can browse the selection of books for sale as well.

Shop 4, 19 Golf Course Road, Sybrand Park. Tel 021-697-0517. @coffeecreamco

Image supplied

Rumi Cafe is a delightful cafe in Pinelands. The menu offers a great variety of light meals, grills, breakfast and even desserts (the pancakes are a favourite).

Monday - Thursday 07h15 - 18h00

Friday - Saturday 07h15 - 21h00

Sunday 07h15 - 15h00

33 Central Square, Pinelands @rumicafe_cpt

Lekker Dite is home to a local favourite - the roti gatsby. It's exactly what the name describes: all the fillings of a gatsby, lovingly wrapped in a huge roti. They also have a selection of burgers, pizzas and even pizza pies. They're open daily, except Sundays.

160 Dennegeur Avenue, Strandfontein. Tel 079-010-4771, @_lekker_dite

Famous Bean Cafe caught me off guard in Howard Centre, Pinelands. It's a quaint little cafe serving burgers and other light meals. The coffee is the star of the show at this eatery so it's great for meetings, catch-ups, breakfast or lunch.

Ground Floor, Pinelands. Tel 067-240-9749

Image by Flamed Burger

Flamed Burger isn't a big cafe, but what they lack in size, they make up for in taste. They do burgers as well as other dishes - do yourself a favour and order onion rings with your dish. It's not the kind of place you would mission to get to, but if you're in the area, stop by; you won't be disappointed.

61 Long Street, Cape Town. Tel 062-860-7267

Kahve Road is a great coffee catch-up spot. I've only ever had breakfast at Kahve and I've never been disappointed. It's a big space but the eating only takes up 30% of the cafe, so get there early to get a spot. A branch has opened in Somerset West as well.

Cavendish Square, Dreyer Street, Claremont. Tel 021-671-1607
Somerset Mall, Somerset West. Tel 021-851-0326

EatStanbul (by Saray) is a restaurant under the Saray Restaurant umbrella. As the name suggests, the food is a selection of great Turkish, specifically Istanbul dishes. As with Saray, you can also order shisha here. It feels like an authentic Turkish experience, with the mosaic tiles, blue walls and Turkish lamps - just add the food and you're practically in Istanbul.

64 Kloof St, Gardens.Tel 021-422-1989

Saray Restaurant in De Waterkant serves Turkish and Kurdish dishes including mains, light meals and desserts. You can also order shisha pipes. Their opening hours are great for a CBD spot (they close at 23h00 on weekends and 22h00 week days).

Harbour Edge Building, 10 Hospital Street, De Waterkant. Tel 021-418-1609

www.saray.co.za

Image by Dr Omar Omar

Andalousse Moroccan Cuisine specialises in authentic Moroccan dishes. Expect to see tajine, harira soup, couscous dishes, and, of course, Moroccan mint tea to wash it all down. I've been to the branch in Woodstock - you have to look really carefully as it's easy to miss. They've opened another branch in Sea Point in May 2019, serving the same tasty dishes. The food is lovely - you have to add it to your must-visit list.

148 Victoria Road, Woodstock & 72 Regent Street, Sea Point. Tel 021-447-1708

Image supplied by Col'Cacchio

Col'Cacchio, Canal Walk is the first fully halaal branch in the Western Cape and their offerings are similar to the original menu with a few tasty tweaks here and there. I tried the Smokey Babe pizza ( I don't really like meat but this was offered to me at the time) and I was pleasantly surprised. The smokey rib was soft and tasty and I like that there was coriander and mint as toppings as well. It gave it an interesting twist. Ingredients: Asian deboned smoked beef ribs, rosso onion, corn, mint, spring onion, coriander. I'd definitely go back and I like that there are more options than your stand halaal offerings like the "Tikka chicken and mushroom" you get on every other menu. There's a selection of mocktails - I had a peach crush ( like a virgin daiquiri - not sure what its actual name was) - all very refreshing.

Lower Level, Entrance 3, Canal Walk. Tel 021-551-1658

http://colcacchio.co.za/

Col'Cacchio, V&A Waterfront is certified halaal and its location right at the front of the Victoria Wharf means it has dining with great views.

Shop 7205, Victoria Wharf, V & A Waterfront. Tel 021-418 -265

Pic courtesy of Hilton Hotel

126 Cape Kitchen & Cafe at the Hilton Hotel is something else. Apart from their exquisite dining options, they also offer teas tastings daily (R85pp), cooking and baking master classes (booking essential) and chef's table experiences (where you see the chefs in action preparing your dish.

Hilton Cape Town City Centre, Buitengracht Street, Cape Town CBD. Tel 021-481-3700.

http://126ckc.com

Mugg & Bean is a well known spot specifically for breakfast, cakes, coffee and light lunch. The branch in Kenilworth Centre is halaal certified and serves the same generous selection as other branches, with variations on the menu where applicable.

Shop 120, Food Court, Kenilworth Centre, Doncaster Road, Kenilworth. Tel 021-674-2226

www.muggandbean.co.za

Panarottis serves pizzas, pastas and other light meals. The branch in Kenilworth Centre (halaal) has a nice kiddies play areas so this is a great family-friendly option.

Keniworth Centre, Doncaster Road, Kenilworth. Tel 021-671-6808

www.panarottis.co.za

Montasio in Sea Point specialises in pizza but they serve light meals like sandwiches, burger and pasta as well. On weekends they operate till 04h00 and during the week they're open till 02h00.
126 Main Road, Sea Point. Tel 021-439-5527

The Venue Elegance Express is a great venue for private functions or even just a casual walk-in lunch. They have regular ribs and wings specials and an array of dishes and desserts. I've been to a function at this venue and if the catering was anything to go by, the menu items will be delicious.

340 Imam Haron Road, Lansdowne. Tel 021-204-4714

Dulce Cafe in Kenilworth Centre has every kind of hot and cold drink you can think of - smoothies, lattes, freezos, milkshakes, teas, coffees and everything inbetween. They're cleverly situated for your mid-shopping break, because we all know how crazy Kenilworth Centre can get. They serve all-day breakfasts, pastas, wraps, sandwiches and desserts.

Shop 38 Kenilworth Centre, Doncaster Road, Kenilworth. Tel 021-683-0669

https://www.dulce.co.za/stores/western-cape/dulce-kenilworth/

Saddles Steak Ranch in Bellville is a fully halaal family-friendly restaurant with an extensive menu ranging frm steaks and grills to light meals and desserts.

Corner of Bill Bezuidenhout Avenue and Voortrekker Road, Bellville. Tel 021-949-1736

www.saddles.co.za

Syriana is a Syrian/Middle Eastern Restaurant that serves well known dishes like falafels, schwarmas and other favourites, but also dishes you may not have heard of. You won't miss an opportunity to Instagram your pics of your food since there are phone chargers at each table. You can also orders shisha pipes. It's a popular hangout spot for those wanting a night out.

307 Main Road, Sea Point. Tel 021-434-1020

Mazaari Restaurant is just opposite the Protea Fire and Ice Hotel and next to Afrogem. They serve everything from burgers, to curries, grills and seafood. There are also dessert and starter options, mocktails and other drinks to choose from.

189 Buitengracht St, Gardens. Tel 021-707-1001

The Home Blend Cafe in Lansdowne is a little cafe available to clients at the adjacent beauty salon and hairdresser. At first glance the place doesn't look like much from the outside, but you will be pleasantly surprised once you enter. Have your hair done, get a massage and then treat yourself to breakfast or lunch. They have some affordable specials as well as discounts for pensioners. You can also buy gift vouchers. The menu includes light meals like scones and heavier dishes like burgers and pasta and even salmon. Full price lists are available on their Facebook page.

556 Lansdowne Road, Lansdowne. Tel 078-557- 8743

The Home Blend Cafe

The Butcher's Wife is a pizza, pasta and grills joint in Belgravia Road. It's a casual set up with take-away and sit-down options. All meat and poultry is sourced from their very own halaal butchery (Pickers Meat Centres). The look and feel is industrial meets rustic, with blackboard menus and exposed brick walls, with a cosy touch in the quaint coffee mugs and stacked firewood.

15 Belgravia Road, Athlone. Tel 021-696-2007

Spitfire Chicken and Grill is not the kind of place you'd think to order a salad - but I did, and I enjoyed it. I loved that the staff members were helpful and friendly. I asked the assistant, "Is ordering a chicken salad a waste of time (implying that I should rather get a proper chicken meal)." He didn't even flinch, and said, "It's actually an investment, it's healthy and it's really good." SOLD! The chicken is tasty ( I had lemon and herb) and the portion was more than enough for me. I didn't use the salad dressing because the chicken made the salad tasty enough. Other meals include full chickens, grills, prawns and ribs. Watch their Facebook page for regular specials.

Kromboom Convenience Centre, Cnr Jan Smuts and Kromboon Road, Rondebosch East (next to Woolworths). Tel 021-697-0483

Pic by Spice Box

Spice Box is a burger joint that specialises in gourmet burgers, boeries, corn on the cob and gourmet lemonades. They operate every Saturday from 17h30 till late, and you may have seen them at some markets and events as well. They also cater at functions with the option of either a braai or burger stand. I can vouch for the creamy mushroom burger - it's amazing. There are other options like the chilli nacho, Hawaiian chilli and cheesy jalapeno burgers. Orders may be placed via WhatsApp.
84 Tussen Road, Rylands (take-away). Tel 072-575-5755. For updates, check their Facebook page and Instagram (@the_spice_box )

Pic by IzzyBurger

The Izzy Burger wasn't always sit-down cafe, it was a pop-up burger spot that has since gained popularity on the burger scene. Burgers are super tasty and it's one of my favourites on weekends.

121 Ottery Road, Wynberg.

Tel: 081-763-5377

Pic by Jango Cafe

Jango Cafe, is a well known burger food truck with mouthwatering options. I generally just have the burgers but I'm told the ribs are out of this world. Keep track of their Instagram and Facebook pages to see where they'll be next.

71 6th Avenue, Rondebosch East. Tel 079-785-3951

Smokey and Co does ribs and wood-fired pizzas in Sybrand Park. You will have to keep an eye on their Facebook and other social media to keep track of trading hours, specials and availability as you'll have to pre-order.

19 Golf Course Road, Sybrand Park. Tel 083-737-6361

Pic by Rack n Grill

Rack 'n Grill used to be a mobile food truck but become quite busy and popular, so they've now opened a shop in Claremont. Watch their Facebook page as well as Instagram for updates. They sell burgers as well as ribs. I've queued for the burgers, and it's worth the wait.
62 Belvedere Road, Claremont

Tel: 073-918-2527

Steelies Fast Foods was a home-based burger joint operating on a WhatsApp and phone ordering system. Now they're operating from a shop at the Waterfront. Head to their website to get your mouth watering then reward yourself by trying on of their gatsbies. They sell flame-grilled burgers, gatsbies and masala steak sandwiches.
Quay 7, East Pier, V&A Waterfront. Tel 082-922-1131
Keep an eye on their Facebook page for updates.

Jassiem Grill Shack is a home-based takeaway joint that, like most of the other similar spots, only operate on weekends. Place orders via WhatsApp or phone Friday 15h00 to 21h00 or Saturdays 12h30 to 21h00. Where else would you find a "Jas Burger"? Other menu items include boerewors rolls, grilled chicken, burgers and grills. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for updates.
31 Hamden Avenue, Kensington. Tel 084-528-1988

The Nachos on Fire is a food truck that serves mexican favourites like nachos, chilli poppers and burritos. You'll find them at various market and events so watch their Facebook Page and Twitter for updates.

Tel 076-714-3031

Hot Fusion sells bunny chow, curries and fries - and by fries I mean masala fries, peri-peri fries, garlic mayo fries and cheese fries. There are also burgers and toasted sandwiches. It's a small eatery with some tables inside but a good deal if you want Indian food at a good price.

Shop 8, Fountain Centre, Corner of Main Road and Grotto Road, Rondebosch. Tel 076-918-1638

Alhambra Restaurant & Coffee Shop next to Islamia Mosque in Lansdowne/Rondebosch is fully halaal and the prices are reasonable. They have a selection of chicken, seafood, meat and pasta dishes, and also serve burgers and wraps. There's also a breakfast menu and dessert options.
409 Lansdowne Road, Rondebosch East. Tel 021-824-0732

Email: alhambracpt@gmail.com

Alhambra @ the the Market Deli has breakfast options for early risers, as well as all-day dining for the rest of us. The location may put you throw you a bit but the food and atmosphere will pleasantly surprise you. The quality is the same as you'd expect from Alhambra at Islamia.

Unit 10 Salt River Circle, Salt River. Tel 021-447-2656

Cafe Shisha is now the location of the popular snooker spot, Narans. You can smoke shisha, order burgers, play pool, have decent (Truth) coffee and just chill at this entertainment joint. Other meals include grilled sandwiches, butter chicken and nachos. They're closed on Mondays, open 17h30 - 22h30 Tuesday to Thursday, 17h30 till late on Fridays, 14h00 till late on Saturdays and 16h00 till 22h30 on Sundays.

12 Polaris Road, Lansdowne. Tel 073-142-8875

At The Village Buffet you can eat as much as you like and drinks are also unlimited. There is, however, a maximum seating time of two hours. This means you have 120 minutes to eat and drink as much as you like for R150 per person (rate on 31 March 2016). Everything is strictly halaal and dishes include a variety of salads, soup, ribs, chicken, calamari, prawns, pasta and loads more. They're open seven days a week from 11h00 till 00h00.

102 Long Street, Cape Town. Tel 021-422-2419

Captain Corndog is a mobile food trailer and the only halaal corndog vendor in the Western Cape. You can find them at festivals or hire them for events. They do the traditional dog, cheese and ostrich corndogs, as well as tornado potatoes (those spiral potatoes with spice). Other menu items include gourmet hot dogs (seven different varieties, Italian beef sandwiches, Philly cheese steak sandwiches, tacos, tater tots, homemade burgers, deep-fried Oreos (whaaaat?) and chocolate corn dogs.

Tel 081-376-4167 (Yusuf and Zaheera Seedat)

Malay Coffee Company in the CBD doesn't have much seating for now, but you can order homemade takeaway dishes. There are plans to include more seating so watch this space. Order coffee and toasted sandwiches or Cape Malay dishes like akhni and salomies – all at reasonable prices (like R30–R40 for lasagne and R15–R20 for coffee).

214 Loop Street, Cape Town. Tel 060-390-0057

Batavia Cafe is in Bo-Kaap (where Haas used to be). It's a small spot with quirky decor (and a section to buy design items). There's a courtyard that's nice if you prefer a bit of privacy. The menu's got a selection of breakfast options including a 'crafty board' which is a DIY board that includes eggs and toast and a selection of whatever else you choose. Lunch includes open sandwiches and salads and there are some desserts including koesiesters.

They're open 08h00 till 17h00.

114 Church Street, Bo-Kaap. Tel 021-422-2272

Caturra Coffee Bar has chalkboard menus with the daily offerings scattered about, and the owner – a trained chef – has added a rustic feel to the place and the food. They serve breakfast and lunch daily. The menu's smaller but there's something for even the fussiest diner. Their pasta is homemade and apparently the prego roll is really good. They're open Monday to Sundays from 07h30. Week days and Sundays they close at 16h00 and Fridays and Saturdays at 21h00. Dishes are very well presented and tasty - I felt the breakfast to be on the more expensive side, though.

315 Main Road, Sea Point. Tel 021-300-5909

Picture courtesy of Sabrias

Sabria's Restaurant in Wynberg leans towards fine dining, the restaurant is airy, inviting and it's definitely suitable for a special occasion. They're open for breakfast (with croissants, salmon, yoghurt, fruit...the works) and they do a Sunday buffet lunch. I love the look of the place and I can see that this will soon become a favourite with the foodies.

119 Ottery Road, Wynberg. Tel 021-797-2498

www.sabrias.co.za

Pearl Spoon

Pearl Spoon is definitely high on my list as a recent favourite. It's where Friends Cafe in Claremont/Rondebosch used to be (next to the garage in Belvedere Road). The decor is elegant and tasteful and the waiters and staff are friendly and helpful. As you enter, the range of sweet treats arranged in bell jars will have you wanting to skip your main meal and head straight to dessert. Food is well presented and tasty and there's a nice variety to suit all tastes. I had the smoked salmon and egg croissant for breakfast and will be back to try a lunch option. The couch area is great for mini get-togethers. They're fully halaal.

44 Belvedere Road, Claremont. Tel 073-708-7802
UPDATE - Pearl Spoon is now also in Observatory – corner of Cranco and Lower Main Road. Tel 073-708-7802

Woodstock Caffe sells burgers and apparently amazing pizzas - you can also build your own. I've never been and can't find much info on it but will update as soon as I can.

65 Victoria Road, Woodstock. Tel 021-447-0417

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Woodstock-Caffe/272373902954352?fref=ts

Woodies Burgers is a take-away spot (with seating) that specialises in burgers...and specifically the big tower-like ones. I've tried the creamy mushroom and green pepper burger and it was really tasty. There are other variations that look equally good. The burgers are really cheesy and the portions are big.
Corner of Belvedere Road and Keurboom Road, Claremont. Tel 079-125-7228

www.facebook.com/woodiesburgers

Tunisian Delights is a stall within Market on the Wharf at the Waterfront. They've got schwarmas and falafels (my favourite here) and it's a nice alternative to the usual stuff you'll have. The sandwiches (or paninis) have interesting variations of toppings and these are toasted so what you get is a melty mozzarella (and meat of some sort) treat. The rest is Middle Eastern salads to compliment your order and they even have baklava as a dessert.
Market on the Wharf, V&A Waterfront.

Food Asia has a similar setup to Food Inn and Easter Food Bazaar where you select your dish and pay at a separate counter - canteen style. There's plenty of seating and it's open 24 hours a day. The food options include sizzlers, Indian dishes, Asian dishes like hakka noodles, Turkish food, hot dogs, gatsby and sandwiches. There's also a range of desserts (of the sweet meats variety) and milkshakes. It's not the kind of place you'd go to for a special occasion but if you're out and about it's nice for a quick bite. 217 Long Street, Cape Town. Tel 021-424-3558.

www.foodasia.co.za

Dodge City Diner in Rondebosch East has the same setup and feel as the branches that used to be at the Waterfront and Kenilworth Centre but a bit smaller. I ordered the V8 burger and it's still as juicy and tasty as I remember. The vibe is casual and nice as a hangout spot. The staff members are all very friendly and attentive. The menu has grills, burgers, lighter meals and starters.

Kromboom Road, Rondebosch East. Tel 084-786-0806.

www.dodgecitydiner.com

Arabian Nights

Arabian Nights is really cool as a hangout spot. It's actually more of a shisha (hookah/okkah pipe) lounge with lots of Bedouin features like curtained booths with couches and cushions covered in patterned material. Pipes come in regular flavours and there are other special blends like Bombay Twist (a mix of fruit and mint).

Meals are limited to tikka and sandwiches but these definitely won't disappoint and are perfect for social gatherings. The milkshakes are worth mentioning - the Layers milkshake is a good option if you're adventurous. It's a colourful layered mix of Strawberry, avo and mango flavours.

Booths look like they can seat up to 10 people and there are two smaller booths, perfect for two. If you'd prefer a bigger variety of meals and desserts, head next door to Rossini (review below). Metro Food Centre, Shop 4, 104 Kromboom Road, Rondebosch East (on the side of Kromboom Bridge).

Rossini is a coffee shop in Rondebosch East that serves light meals. The waffles and pancakes are huge so try not to eat too much food if you're planning to have dessert. The tikka dishes are really good. It's a nice place for a bigger group as well because they can move tables around to accommodate you. Metro Food Centre, 104 Kromboom Road, Rondebosch East (on the side of Kromboom Bridge). Tel 021-696-5422.

Burger King opened in Cape Town in March 2013. The setup of the place is nice for families as there are games, a basketball court and lots of space for roaming. As the name implies, they serve burgers. The burgers, for me, are along the lines of McDonald's in terms of quality. It's a bit more pricey and people often compare it to Steers - I don't think it comes close (quality). The taste - it's not bad. The best part of the Burger King experience is the bottomless drinks.
www.burgerking.co.za

Jewel of India sells curries, tandoori dishes and desserts. I haven't been and don't know much about the portions and quality. I'll update as soon as I've been. 102 Corner of Wale and Rose Street, Bo-Kaap. Tel 021-424-7588.
jewelofindiagroup.co.za

Mumbai Cafe sells India and Cape Malay dishes. I haven't been and don't know much about the portions and quality. I'll update as soon as I've been. It's part of the same group that owns Jewel of India in Wale Street. Shop 4 Klipfontein Road, Rylands. Tel 021-637-9846.

Food Inn India is an informal eatery with a setup where you pay for your food at one counter then fetch your order at the relevant section. They have curries, naan bread, Chinese food and Capetonian favourites like gatsbies and toasted sandwiches.The branch in the CBD is open almost 24 hours daily, which really comes in handy for late nights out. The other branch (in Rondebosch) is open till 10pm.If you haven't already, try the prawn hakka noodles - one of my favourites.

156 Long Street, Cape Town. Tel 021-422-5060
Riverside Mall, Rondebosch. Tel 082-053-2098
www.foodinnindia.co.za

The Food Kart can be found in the go-karting facility at Canal Walk. They're on the mezzanine level in the parking lot. They sell burgers, sandwiches, wraps and various baskets. Tel 021-525-1720

District Cafe

District Cafe in Woodstock is small but cosy and elegant. The menu has a range of breakfast, light meals, desserts, milkshakes and other drinks and the cupcakes are divine (red velvet). The decor is tasteful and modern with earthy tones and colourful scatter cushions. They also do steaks (tasty) and have a delivery service for orders of R100 or more (only for places in the immediate surrounds). It's open till 18h00 daily but till 22h00 on weekends.
Roodebloem Road, Woodstock. Tel 021-447-3444
www.districtcafe.co.za

The Lounge on Kromboom in Rondebosch East serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and desserts and is also a okkah smoking lounge. The wraps taste like homemade food with a 'smoortjie-like' taste with some melted cheese in. If you're not very hungry, this is a good option. There's also a sushi counter in the semi-outdoor deck (smoking allowed here). The restaurant is closed on Mondays.
Kromboom Road, above Woolworths, corner of Kromboom and Jan Smuts Drive. Tel 021-696-9719.
www.the-lounge.co.za.

Atlantic Express

Atlantic Express Cake & Coffee Train is that blue train restaurant you must have seen in Sea Point. You literally have your food in a stationary train. The prawn chaat is quite popular and for good reason. The setup is very intimate and because it's in the train, the seating can't be moved around, so I wouldn't recommend a function unless you manage to book the whole train. The food is really good. I've been a few times and order something different every time, so I don't have any favourites just yet. The place is generally very busy on weekends so don't be surprised if you have to wait for a table. It's worth the wait though. Open till midnight on weekends. 18 Regent Road, Sea Point, Cape Town. Tel 021-439-3038

Biesmiellah is a popular Bo-Kaap spot and long-standing favourite.

Wale Street - you can't miss it, Cape Town. Tel 021-423-0850 www.biesmiellah.co.za

Bo-Kaap Kombuis in Bo-Kaap (duh) has curries and all sorts of typical Cape Malay food. They've got a pretty decent view of Table Mountain if you sit on the balcony or near the window.
7 August Street on Upper Wale Street, Bo-Kaap. Tel 021-422-5446

www.bokaapkombuis.co.za

Eastern Food Bazaar has a variety of food from uhm...the EAST. Their prices are extremely reasonable - I'm talking butter chicken for something like R30. They've got breyanis, curries, spicy chicken, Chinese food, shawarmas and ice-cream and desserts. The setup is cafeteria-style so don't expect elegant and classy. The food's good though.

96 Longmarket Street. Cape Town. Tel 021-461-2458

www.easternfoodbazaar.co.za

Mariam's Kitchen isn't really a restaurant, it's more like one of the most popular take-aways in the CBD. Well known for their gatsby variations and steak sandwiches, you won't be disappointed with a lunch break here.
33 Heeragracht Foreshore, Cape Town. Tel 021-421-3737
58 Strand Street, Cape Town. Tel 021-421-3636

Jimmy's Killer Prawns in Canal walk makes...you guessed it, killer prawns. Their other dishes include burgers, steaks, sushi and various platters.

Shop 71A, Canal Walk. Tel 021-552-5000
www.jimmyskillerprawns.com

Ladybee Delhi Diner - Weigh what you want to eat, and pay. Simple as that. There are veggies, pastas, curries and breyani dishes and you can have whatever you like.

St Peter’s Square, Observatory. Tel 021-447-6558

Kromboom Road, Rondebosch East. Tel 021-696-4800

Epping Industria. Tel 021-535-5777
Zewenwacht Mall, Kuilsriver. Tel 021-906-0080
Westgate Mall, Mitchell's Plain. Tel 021-371-7050
www.ladybee.co.za

Tashreeqa’s Coffee and Cake Emporium has light meals, cake and coffee at its well-known spot in Rondebosch East.

Kromboom Centre, Kromboom Road, Rondebosch East. Tel 021-696-1005

http://tashreeqas.wozaonline.co.za

Taj Mahal - If you're up for the drive then this restaurant in Hout Bay makes for a great day out. They serve seafood and Indian dishes and are also popular for events and large groups.

Shop 4, Rawoot Centre, 44 Victoria Avenue, Hout Bay. Tel 021-790-4711

Primi Caffè sells most of the stuff that normal Primi Piattis have but with varied ingredients (because it's halaal). The food is consistently good and I've never had something I didn't like. They sell red velvet cupcakes - that aren't cheap - but they're definitely one of the best I've tasted. I'd recommend you add that to your order. It's not a full-sized Primi so either come early to get a spot for supper or do takeaways.

Shop 8 Rosmead Centre 67 Rosmead Avenue Kenilworth. Tel 021-671-5126/7

www.primi-world.com

Cosy Corner is no stranger to the southern suburbians. They have a selection of Malay dishes and some western favourites as well. It's essentially a take-away spot so if you want to sit down and enjoy a meal, Sabria's Restaurant (same location) is where you'll eat.

119 Ottery Road, Wynberg. Tel 021-797-2498

http://cosycornertakeaway.co.za
www.sabrias.co.za

Spur Steak Ranches - there are five branches in Cape Town that are fully halaal.
Golden Feather Spur,Vangate Mall. Tel 021-633-7484
Eagle Eye Spur - St Peter's Square, Observatory. Tel 021-448-0921
Twin Peak Spur, Ottery Hypermarket. Tel 021-703-0019
Rodeo Spur, Warwick Street, Claremont (not the one in Cavendish Square). Tel 021-683-3860
Tomahawk Spur, 67 Voortrekker Road, Goodwood. Tel 02-591-8815
Topeka Spur, Shop 125 Kenilworth Shopping Centre, Doncaster Road. Tel 021-671-6191
www.spur.co.za

Myatt cafe latte

Myatt Cafe and Chocolatier has macaroons!!! Delicious ones at that. Apart from their yummy teatime treats, they also have breakfasts and light lunches. None of the traditional stuff though. Check it out. No alcohol served and staff confirm it's halaal.
Shop 6244, Victoria Wharf, V&A Waterfront. Tel 021-418-8844
www.myattcafe.com

Nino's in Rondebosch Village is fully halaal and open for breakfast and lunch. Their breakfast specials are worth a try - especially the breakfast stack. Their regular prices are a bit on the steep side but the food's good.
Klipfontein Road (opposite Red Cross Hospital). Tel 021-685-4867
www.ninos.co.za

La Rocca in Canal Walk Shopping Centre serves quite a variety of dishes from sushi to pastas, burgers and wraps. The prices are reasonable and the service is quite good for such a large store. I'd recommend the nachos if you're going to have a starter. It's a bit spicy (I have a low tolerance for hot stuff) but it's really tasty.
Shop 10, Canal Walk (opposite Woolworths). Tel 021-555-0909
www.larocca.co.za

Zaika Tandoor in Kromboom Road is fully halaal and offers a range of curries and breyanis. They also sell tikka gatsbys but instead of having a regular one, pay R10 extra to have your fillings wrapped in naan bread. You will NOT regret it!
8 Kromboom Road, Rondebosch East. Tel 021-697-3084
www.zaika.co.za

Roman's Pizza makes it really well and have cool specials (at the moment buy one, get one free. July 2011)
Corner of Klipfontein and Murton Roads, Athlone. Tel 021-637-2146
14 Long Street, Cape Town. Tel 021-421-8761
Shop 190, Promenade, Mitchell's Plain. Tel 021-376-7447
www.romanspizza.co.za

Kauai is generally set up as a takeaway cafe, or at least it looks that way, but there are branches with seating. It's certified halaal since 1996 but I've been told that there are branches in JHB that have bacon. I need to verify this.
Branches countrywide.
www.kauai.co.za

Bibi's Kitchen has Indian dishes including rogan gosh and other delicious meals.
Broad Road, Broadmed Centre, Wynberg. Tel 021-761-8365

Pearl of India serves aromatic Indian dishes.

Shop 75, Vangate Mall, Vanguard Drive, Rylands. Tel 021-637-5152

St Elmos has pizza, pasta, desserts and salads. Halaal branches include

Athlone - 15 Belgravia Road, Belgravia, Athlone. Tel 021-696-2007

Claremont - Cnr Belevdere and Lansdowne Roads, Claremont. Tel 021-674-9000

Woodstock - Fairview House Cnr Victoria & Argyle Streets Woodstock. Tel 021-447-8604

www.stelmos.co.za

Fish on the Rocks in Hout Bay is a longstanding favourite in Cape Town and is very popular over weekends in summer. It's more a cafe than an actual restaurant - be willing to queue for your food but the wait is definitely worth it. You'll find the usual fish and chips and other seafood options.

1 Harbour Road, Hout Bay. Tel 021-790-0001.

www.fishontherocks.co.za

Snoekies, a popular fish and chips takeaway in Hout Bay sells a variety of seafood parcels and you won't be disappointed - as long as you're willing to queue (particularly on weekends) as you would at most of the establishments on the harbour.

Inside the Harbour, at the end. Tel 021-790-1867.

www.snoekies.co.za

Simply Asia (Kenilworth) is a Thai restaurant/takeaways that makes noodles and other Thai dishes. You'll find that most branches don't have a seating area as they're usually in food courts, but this branch has a fully serviced sit-down area. Popular dishes include the 514 (roasted chilli paste and cashew nut noodles) and most other noodle dishes, but don't overlook the rice dishes, they're just as good. For starters, I'd recommend you share the 6-piece combo platter, a mix of vegetable spring rolls, chicken spring rolls and and sweetcorn cakes. The Kenilworth, Waterfront and Cape Gate branches are fully halaal.

61A Rosmead Avenue, Kenilworth. Tel 021-674-5175

www.simplyasia.co.za

Ocean Basket in Vangate Mall is fully halaal and serves the same dishes the other branches have. This branch is certified halaal and has no alcohol.

Shop 76, Vangate Mall, Vanguard Drive, Athlone. Tel 021-633-6716

www.oceanbasket.com

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These are places that aren't certified halaal, either because they serve alcohol or for some other reason, but staff have confirmed that the meat they use is from a halaal supplier. Some places may use alcohol in their dishes so be wary and make sure you know exactly what goes into the dish. I've had a lot of feedback from people disagreeing with me adding this section - I think you can use your discretion when deciding where to eat. I'm not promoting any of the places - it's here for your information - use it, don't use it.

On The Square is the restaurant at The Capetonian (hotel) opposite the CTICC. Everyone just calls the restaurant 'The Capetonian' though. The hotel serves alcohol so cannot be certified.

Corner of Adderley and Coen Steytler, Cape Town. Tel 021-405-5670

Seelan has a nice view of the pier and Table Mountain from its upmarket setting at the Waterfront. Dishes are described as Italian dishes with a touch of African and Indian inspired meals. The prawn curry is said to be the favourite and signature dishes also include the fish or beef tagliata. Meat is from a halaal supplier (confirmed by Kyle Krok of CSA communications) but there is a bar onsite.
Shop 8, Quay 5, V&A Waterfont. Tel 021-421-4906.

NV-80 is the sister restaurant to Pigalle. The setting is upmarket but relaxed and the vibe is more laid back than I expected. Waiters seat you and put a napkin on your lap - so it's that kind of place. It's by no means a stiff and uptight place, though. Waiters are very knowledgable about what's on the menu and service is quick and efficient. The food...oh my, the food. I'm not a huge meat eater so I went for the salmon - delish! My friends all had steaks and reckon it's one of the best they've ever had in Cape Town. At first I thought the prices looked quite steep but for what you get, in terms of the whole package - service, food and setting, it's worth it. Meat is from a halaal supplier, but wine is served on the premises.

The Point, 76 Regent Road, Shop 8, First Floor, Sea Point (In the same building as Checkers). Tel 021-439-7112.

www.nv-80.co.za

The Avenue Restaurant and Grill is famed for its delicious steaks. I'm told their steaks are really, really good and the owners have confirmed the all the meat used in the kitchen are from halaal suppliers. If, like me, you're not big on steaks, they do cater for chicken-lovers and vegetarians as well. The chicken kebabs are tasty and the portion is big. You must have the Nutella milkshake if you have space for it. Alcohol is served on the premises. 47, 2nd Avenue, Harfield Village. Tel 021-671-0623.

Passage to India has curries, kebabs, vegetarian dishes and Indian sweet treats. They're open for lunch and dinner every day. I haven't been to this restaurant but will appreciate feedback or I'll update if I go. The other restaurants in this chain (Jewel of India and Mumbai Cafe) are fully halaal and this branch uses the same supplier, they are however licensed to sell alcohol. Shop 2 Caranaby Centre Marine Circle, Bloubergstrand. Tel 021-557-5524.

Beluga serves meat from a halaal supplier in their restaurant but are licenced to sell alcohol. Their sushi menu is awesome. My favourites are tuna crunch rolls and Carin's rolls - especially on half-price days (daily 12-6pm and Sundays all day). They have a wide variety of non-alcoholic cocktails (mocktails) and in terms of dessert, you can't go wrong with the white chocolate beignets (Flash fried Lindt balls, vanilla bean icecream and butterscotch sauce). The prawn and coriander wontons are worth a try too.

The Foundry, Prestwich Street, Green Point. Tel 021-418-2948

www.beluga.co.za

Bukhara has Indian food (from halaal meat supplier) but they serve alcohol and one branch is at Grand West Casino.

33 Church Street, Cape Town. Tel 021-424-0000

Grand West. Tel 021-535-4444

Corner of Dorp and Bird Street, Stellenbosch. Tel 021-882-9133

www.bukhara.com

Haiku is owned and run by the same people who own Bukhara, and they serve Asian dishes.

33 Church Street, Cape Town. Tel 021-424-7000

http://bukhara.com/haiku/

Cape Town Fish Market serves seafood, grills and sushi. They also do breakfast now. They serve alcohol.

They've got various branches that can be viewed here.

www.ctfm.co.za

Annapurna has North Indian dishes using meat from a halaal supplier. They serve alcohol.

La Piazza, Canal Walk. Tel 021-555-3595

‎

RG's Kabab Mahal's menu consists of various Indian dishes. They serve alcohol.

315 Main Road, Sea Point. Tel 021-434-0008

http://kababmahal.co.za

Ari's Souvlaki makes their famous shawarmas and other popular Greek dishes. It's casual, cheap and cheerful.
83a Regent Road, Seapoint. Tel 021-439-6683

Chai Yo is a Thai restaurant specialising in Thai dishes and sushi. They serve alcohol. Take-away offered. Chai Yo is part of the same group Simply Asia belongs to (Cape Thai Restaurants Holdings).
65 Klipfontein Road, Mowbray. Tel 021-689-6157
www.chai-yo.co.za

Anatoli Turkish Restaurant uses meat from a halaal supplier and doesn't use alcohol in their food. They do sell alcohol on the premises.
24 Napier Street, Greenpoint. Tel 021-419-2501
www.anatoli.co.za

Anatoli's Express is right next to Anatoli Turkish Restaurant (same owner) and their meat is supplied by a halaal meat supplier - Jolly Meat in Mitchell's Plain (owned by Allie Logday). They serve traditional breakfasts and lunches daily till 16h00. There is alcohol on the premises but none used in the food or preparation thereof.
24 Napier Street, Greenpoint. Tel 021-419-2501
http://anatoli.co.za/Express.aspx

Kushi Indian Restaurant has a Bollywood lounge where you can chill and smoke hubbly bubbly or a restaurant where you can enjoy Indian cuisine. Meat is from a halaal supplier. They serve alcohol.
Shop 7, Red Sails, Main Road, Hout Bay. Tel 021-791-4805
There's a branch in Sea Point as well ( 315 Main Road) Tel 073-509-1742
www.kushiindianrestaurant.com

Bihari Indian Restaurant has North Indian meals with meat from a halaal supplier. Alcohol is served.

Main Road, Newlands. Tel 021-674-7186

www.bihari.co.za

Yindees has authentic Thai dishes and the setting (in a house) is gorgeous. No alcohol is used in the food, meat is from a halaal supplier. Alcohol is served.

22 Camp Street (opposite Jan van Riebeeck High School), Gardens. Tel 021-422-1012

www.yindees.com

Mesopotamia is a well-known Kurdish restaurant often used for functions or big dinners. They have belly dancers on most nights and upstairs you can enjoy a hookah pipe. Menu only has meat from halaal supplier. Alcohol served.

Corner of Long and Church Streets, Cape Town. Tel 021-424-4664
www.mesopotamia.co.za

Barans Theatre Restaurant has a similar setup to Mesopotamia with its belly dancers and Kurdish cuisine (They're part of the same group). On the bottom floor is a coffee shop with light meals and the main restaurant is upstairs. You can also have a hookah pipe at this spot. Food from a halaal supplier. alcohol is served.

Corner of Burg and Shortmarket Streets, Cape Town. Tel 021-426-4466
www.mesopotamia.co.za/Barans/index.html

Simply Asia is a Thai restaurant/takeaways (but mostly takeaway) that makes delicious noodle dishes. You'll find that most branches don't have a seating area as they're usually in food courts. These branches have their own seating:

Howard Centre, Pinelands. Tel 021-531-2422
Heritage Square, Cape Town. Tel 021-426-4347
61A Rosmead Avenue, Kenilworth. Tel 021-674-5175 (fully halaal)
Park Road, Gardens. Tel 021-422-3364
West Coast Village,c/o R27 and Sandown Road,Parklands. Tel 021 554-5541
54 Dorp Street, Stellenbosch. Tel 021-886-7382
www.simplyasia.co.za

Vintage India is an upmarket North Indian restaurant in Gardens. Staff have verbally confirmed that the meat is from a halaal supplier. Alcohol is served.

Mill Street, Gardens. Tel 021-462-5106

Table Mountain Cafè at the top of Table Mountain has a range of meals that you can enjoy while overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Alcohol is served on the premises but is not used in any of the dishes or sauces. Meat from a halaal supplier.

Table Mountain, Cape Town. Tel 021-424-8181
http://tablemountain.net

Moyo is well-known for their buffet lunches and suppers. The branch at Spier has closed down but there's still one at Kirstenbosch and Blouberg. They do have options from halaal suppliers. Alcohol is served.

www.moyo.com

Ocean Basket sells seafood dishes only. They serve alcohol. Branches countrywide. One fully halaal branch in Vangate Mall.

www.oceanbasket.co.za

Coffee on the Square has cakes, coffee and light meals. Menu has some products from halaal suppliers.
Ground floor, main foyer CTICC, Cape Town. Tel 021-410-5053

Bombay Chilli is an Indian bistro that serves curries and other similar dishes. Meat from a halaal suppplier but alcohol served.
46 Beach Road, Muizenberg. Tel 021-788-1016
www.bombaychilli.co.za

Signal Hill Terrace at the Hilton Hotel is a chilled eatery where you can relax at the pool with light meals or snacks. They also have okkah/shisha and all the food's from halaal suppliers but they do serve alcohol.
126 Buitengracht, Hilton Cape Town City Centre Hotel, corner of Buitengracht and Wale Street, Cape Town. Tel 021-481-3700.
www.capetowncitycentre.hilton.com

Pancho's in Observatory has huge portions of Mexican dishes including burritos and awesome nachos. You have to book in advance as this spot is very popular and you may end up waiting on the pavement till a table is available. Book a table at the back if you'd prefer to be away from the bar area. Staff have confirmed that the meat is from a halaal supplier. They serve alcohol. Closed on Sundays.
127 Lower Main Road, Observatory. Tel 021-447-4854.

Addis in Cape is an Ethiopian restaurant in the CBD and their meals include vegetarian, vegan and non-vegetarian meals made with meat from a halaal supplier.
41 Church Street (an corner of Long Street), Cape Town. Tel 021-424-5722.
www.addisincape.co.za

Sloppy Sam is a Mediterranean-styled restaurant serving mostly Greek cuisine and specialising in lamb dishes. There are a few chicken, beef and seafood options but the lamb's what you'd want to go for. The owner/chef is chirpy and if you pass him upon entering, he'll give you a warm and happy welcome to his restaurant. The name of the place may raise an eyebrow but there's nothing sloppy about the venue, food or the service. Meat from halaal supplier. Alcohol served.
51a Somerset Road, Green Point. Tel 021-419-2921.
www.sloppysam.co.za.

Singh's House of Curries is one of a few (or if any) places in the Winelands area that has meat from a halaal supplier. Guests are allowed to bring their own alcohol so this spot isn't certified.
344 Main Road, Paarl. Tel 021-872-4243.
www.singhscurryhouse.co.za.

There are other takeaway places that I didn't include, like Nando's, KFC and McDonald's. These, among others are halaal. I'll keep updating the list as I receive more information.

Halaal sushi on call

2016-06-21T13:26:00.003+02:00

Picture credit: Dial My Sushi

Your prayers have been answered. Dial My Sushi makes fresh sushi daily and delivers it to your door (only if you live within 15km of Wetton - if you don't, sorry for you :-)

The sushi is fully halaal and to get your hands on it, you simply place an order (details below) and wait for the freshness to arrive.

Prices are on par with other sushi establishments but there's a winter special offering 20% off anything on the menu (valid till 31 July). Orders of over R400 get free delivery, otherwise delivery is charged according to your location.

Ph: 081 774 2155
Email: info@dialmysushi.co.za
Web: www.dialmysushi.co.za
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dialmysushi/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dialmysushi/

Scene cinema at Nu Metro

2014-05-30T10:35:00.000+02:00

If you haven't tried out the Nu Metro Scene cinema experience at the Waterfront, do yourself a favour and book now. I like to call it the 'posh' movies. Once you try it, regular movies will feel so lame.

The theatre only seats 16 people in La-Z-Boy-like seats. You know, the ones that recline all the way back. Added to this is a menu specifically for Scene movie-goers and a separate payment, popcorn and treat counter. The little (and I mean little) chill area with couches comes in handy when you're waiting for friends.

Tickets are R85 and Clicks Clubcard holders don't qualify for a discount. You'll have to budget about R150 if you're going to do the whole shebang - with drinks and a meal. I'd advise you to book your ticket online beforehand because the cinema is small and tickets get sold out quickly. If you go to the Nu Metro site, you'll see this icon on the right-hand side below 'PROMOS AND COMPETITIONS':

Click on it and it'll take you to the movies that are showing there.

At the counter, have a look at the menu and choose whatever you'd like to have. If you have time, you can wait for your order at the counter, or tell the assistant you'd like your food brought to you at a specific time - I like to say, 'Thirty minutes into the movie'. Just coz I can.

Menu
There's a range of things to choose from - so far my favourites are the buglets (mini burgers x 3) and the bunny chow, which is the cutest thing ever. Three roll-like mini breads (they call it brioche) filled with butter chicken with sides of yoghurt and coriander (dhanya). Both these options are under R40. These form part of the lighter meals section. There's also:

Platters (for one) at R43,95 each with a variety of cheeses, cold meats, breads, biltong. R43,95

The main meals include a choice of three sandwiches including a chicken, Caprese and a signature one with chicken, rocket and macon. R31,95 - R36,95

Wraps have two options: Roasted leg of lamb with caramelised baby onions (R39,95) and Roasted red pepper, mushroom and aubergine (R31,95)

Dessert: There's a chocolate mousse trio and a dessert board that includes creme brulee, chocolate brownie and cheesecake. YUM!

A variety of coffee and tea also available, and of course, popcorn and drinks.

*STAFF CONFIRMED THAT THE FOOD SERVED AT THE WATERFRONT CINEMA IS HALAAL AND PREPARED ON SITE. THEY DON'T HAVE A HALAAL CERTIFICATE BECAUSE THEY ARE APPLYING FOR A LIQUOR LICENCE.

My only gripe, though, is that while you're reclining, you can't reach your drink in the cup holder, so you have to sit up each time you want to take a sip - or sip very slowly and carefully. Same goes for eating. When your meal arrives you have to return to upright position - which makes sense - but the drink thing still bugs me.

Other than that, it's a cool experience. Check it out here

Honey high tea event

2014-05-22T10:50:00.005+02:00

Honey high tea event

If you won't mind sipping tea while admiring the latest in fashion and Honey jewellery, this event's for you. It's R150 per person and (BONUS) you get a free Honey gift just for attending.

I hope to see you all there. It's a first for me at an event like this and I suspect it's going to be loads of fun.

Check out www.honeyacc.co.za for more info on the jewellery.
For more about Fatima Khan-Wise see memrsme.blogspot.com
Never been to Alhambra? Read about it here www.facebook.com/AlhambraRestuarant and here http://fatimajakoet.blogspot.com/2011/07/halaal-restaurants-in-cape-town.html

Madame Zingara 2013

2013-04-05T14:38:00.000+02:00

Having dinner at Madame Zingara has been on my bucket list (see number 13 here) for a while and this year I finally got to go. I've always heard people say it's really good and that I'd enjoy it - but I don't think they did it any justice. I abso-bloody-lutely loved it and was blown away for about half the evening.

Courtesy of Madame Zingara

My attitude before I got there was, 'This show better be worth R385.' I think that's what most people think while making their booking. Naturally, because of my sceptism, I opted for the cheapest tickets. I was also one of the I'm-not-dressing-up crowd who didn't want to act the fool, but let me give you a word of advice: Act the fool. We rocked up at the venue feeling a little boring compared to all the smiley, festive people having their faces painted and buying all sorts of head gear and masks. So we added a pair of gold sunnies and some gold horns to make us fit in - R100 later, we were smiley Zingarians ready to party. That said, try to bring your own decorative goodies, it'll save you a few bucks.

The welcome drink ( I chose the non-alcoholic one) is lime and cranberry slushy drink. Our waitress was Snow White, and glancing around the tent I could see a cat, Hawaiian dancer and other crazy characters serving starters. The tent isn't as big as I expected inside, but it's nice and cosy and interesting to see the waiters whisking through narrow spaces at high speed to get meals to tables - something fascinating to watch - and not one plate dropped.

So the show begins and on a scale I was still at the 'This is enjoyable' marker - that is, until the muscular Russian guys appeared and did their skit. At this point my mouth was slightly open and eyes even wider. You tend to sit there cringing and hoping no one gets hurt. No one did. Then, enter the Mongolian performers. Oh my hat! I don't want to give too much away, but if I was wearing a hat that night, I would have taken it off to them. Truly a magnificent performance. I'm not trying to take the spotlight away from any of the other performers. They're all really good and you will love every minute, from the singing to the scarf-act girl and even the bath tub girl (yes, bath tub). Be careful when she's on - you might get wet ;-) The finale - a super entertaining Argentinian duo. All in all it's a spectacular show, with equally impressive hosts (The super glamorous Cathy Specific and Mr C).

Courtesy of Madame Zingara

I deliberately didn't mention the food because if the show didn't grab you (what are you, dead?), the food will definitely make up for it. The chocolate chilli steak (dark Belgian chocolate, rosemary and a hint of chilli with a beef fillet on rocket and field mushrooms) is the clear favourite but if red meat's not your thing, the Norwegian salmon option is just as yummy (if you require a halaal option, mention this when booking). However, you'll first have to get through a mezze platter and a second course (pasta). Dessert is a mix of tasting-sized treats that will round off the evening nicely with a cup of coffee.

Courtesy of Madame Zingara

Just when you think the night's coming to an end, the party starts. The music's turned up and you're free to join in on stage, or if you're a bit more conservative, you can break it down at your table. Just make sure to settle your bill and tip your waiter (they really do work for it).

So is it worth the R385+ ? Put it to you this way, I'd go again in a heartbeat and not think twice about the price. It's THAT good. It also happens to be the last time the Madame will be in Cape Town for a while - so I reckon you best get your butt to the Waterfront.

Website: http://theatreofdreams.madamezingara.com/
Bookings: 0861-623-263

Wedding bells

2013-01-09T12:20:00.001+02:00

I'm totally going to be lame and post pics of our wedding day! I don't have all the pics yet but this is one of my favourites so far.

My bucket list...so far

2012-05-02T12:08:00.000+02:00

1. ~~See the Pyramids of Giza~~ - done June 2012
2. ~~Go to Turkey~~ - done June 2012
3. ~~Go to Mykonos~~ - done
4. ~~Skydiving -~~ done
5. Visit Kruger National Park
6. ~~Take a pic with Just Nuisance in Simonstown~~ - 24 August 2013
7. ~~Visit the Sulina Fairy Sanctuary in Swellendam~~ - done
8. ~~Visit the big pineapple in Bathurst - done~~
9. ~~Go on a hot-air balloon ride~~ - done June 2012, Cappadocia
10. Go to Robben Island
11. ~~Go up Table Mountain - done~~
12. Go to Zanzibar
13. ~~Have dinner at Madame Zingara -~~ done March 2013
14. Play in snow
15. Go to Brazil
16. See the Great Wall of China
17. ~~See the Colosseum~~
18. ~~See the Eiffel Tower~~
19. ~~See Buckingham Palace~~
20. ~~Go to Thailand~~
21. ~~Elephant back ride~~
22. See a leopard in the wild
23. ~~Visit one of the Indian Ocean Islands~~ (Mauritius honeymoon December 2012)
24. Visit the floating market in Thailand
25. ~~Do a 5 kilometre run.~~ 9 Sept 2013. Switching to: ~~Do a 10km run~~ 13 October 2013
26. Swim 10 laps in an Olympic-size pool.
27. Take a picture that ends up on the cover of a magazine.
28. Make breyani from scratch
39. Stay in a castle
40. See the Big Hole in Kimberley
41. Go on a cruise
42. See the big postbox in Calvinia
43. Visit the Cradle of Humankind
44. ~~Go on a Gondola in Venice - done~~
45. ~~Do the underground tour of Cape Town - done~~
46. Do the Cape Argus Cycle Tour
47. ~~Hop on the sightseeing bus, Cape Town - done~~
48. Sign up at a gym
49. ~~Start a blog - done~~
~~50. See the Red Hot Chili Peppers live in concert - 5 Feb 2013, Cape Town~~

Diving Ponta Do Ouro, Mozambique

2012-02-24T16:44:00.002+02:00

I'm not the biggest fan of open water - don't ask me why I signed up to learn to scuba dive. In the movies it looks so calm and exotic - where we went it was anything but calm! Here's my account of a one-week, learn-to-dive stay in Ponta Do Ouro, Mozambique.

The plan was to fly to Joburg, stay over at a friend's house one night and then hit the road first thing in the morning. There were four of us (one lives in Joburg so we crashed there).

The players: Fatima, Amien, Faaiq, Traci

The next day we had what seemed like a 12-hour drive to the Kosi Bay border (to get into Mozambique). We took about 8 hours - there were lots of road blocks but we had a kick-ass game of Noot-Vir-Noot for at least half of the drive - thanks to Faaiq's playlist.


On the way to the border

That's kinda what I looked like throughout the drive

After a million potholes and maybe half a million cows and roadblocks...we got to the border.

This is what the border looks like. Check out of SA on the left, check into Moz on the right

The Moz flag

The company we were doing the dives with is called DevOcean Diving. We parked our car at the border and they collected us (you need a 4x4 to drive into Ponta Do Ouro - or a 4x2 with diff lock). It was a bumpy ride...and halfway there I lost reception.

So our programme went something like this:

Day 1: Welcome drink, chill, get to know the people, get shown to our tents (yes, tents) and hang out. Our tents were on platforms and had two single beds in each (some have double beds) and there's a fan, bedside lamp and shelving. Very basic but clean and sufficient. The communal ladies toilets and showers were also basic but clean and fine for even the fussiest female. If, like me, you're not crazy about bugs, frogs and other weird creatures, you may take a while to adapt. They're not scary though - most of them, especially the geckos were cute. It's camping...there's no time to freak out about bugs.

One of the tented camps


My tent (Anchor). All tents are named after reefs in Ponta

Inside the tent

The beach at Ponta was a bit windy when we got there so I just walked around and dipped my toes into the lukewarm water.

Hot stuff!

Supper that night was chicken kebabs with satay sauce and coconut rice. Marijke is the resident chef and she makes the most amazing dishes.

Chicken kebabs the DevOcean way

Day 2: Started with rusks and coffee then brunch when the other (experienced) divers get back from their early dive. Brunch (2-course) was yoghurt, muesli and fruit followed by some sort of eggs Benedict variant: two poached eggs on toasted bread with spinach and sauce was some kind of Hollandaise sauce with mustard seeds.


Brunch, day 2

OK, enough of the food talk. We spent most of the rest of the day watching five DVDs each covering different aspects of diving, water conditions, and some physics in the mix. It wasn't the most exciting day - very informative - but not exciting. After the draining couple of hours of movie-watching, we had to write an exam about what we learnt. Bleh...

That took up most of our day and then we headed out for a bit of exploring, had supper (we braaied) and went to bed (it was a tiring day!).

Shopping at Magenta Moon

The sign Faaiq didn't see before he opened the fridge while barefeet

Day 3: Off to the pool we go! We learnt how to prepare and check your scuba gear before a dive. Our first dive is a confined water dive so we started off in a swimming pool. I hated it. It took a while for me to adjust to breathing through a regulator. Everyone else seemed calm - I was a nervous wreck who wanted to bail out of the whole scuba diving idea. Our instructor, Lea, was very patient and wouldn't have me chickening out. So back underwater I went.

We learnt how to breathe through the regulator, how to switch to your buddy's alternative air source, underwater signalling, mask removal and clearing, equalising and the most scary exercise: removing the regulator and only breathing the air it shoots out.

After the two-hour lesson I was a bit unsettled and still wasn't sure if I was going to continue. That night I had to take more Rescue pills to calm me down. I wasn't feeling great. Amien, Faaiq and Traci were awesome though - real gees-stokers.

The equipment and changing 'room'

Learning the ropes

Our first confined water dive

Day 4: Time for the second confined water dive! We used a deeper pool and I was more settled this time around. We completed the rest of the practicals including removing your mask and swimming without it; the procedure for when you run out of air (eek!); removing your scuba gear underwater and on the surface; buoyancy control and of course, mask clearing (again). After that we had a lunch break and the lessons were done for the day.

Supper that night was Mozambican prawns....mmmm

Day 5: And finally the day arrives when we do our first open water dive. The day is broken up into two parts: one early morning dive after a rusk and coffee then return for breakfast/brunch, rest a bit then go out for a late morning dive. Once the second dive is done you're free for the rest of the day. We were working towards our open water diver certification so we needed at least four open water dives under our belt to qualify.

So we kit up, head for the beach and launch the boat. The weather wasn't great so it was a bit of a bumpy ride to get behind the surf. Once we got past it, I started asking myself, 'Fatima, what the hell are you doing here?' The nerves started tingling and boom...I was officially a nervous wreck. Mallie, our skipper was awesome so I felt a bit at ease but the minute we got to the drop off spot I was back to being my ridiculous self.

'Everybody into the water on THREE....TWO....ONE....#$@%^&&....'

We all plunged backwards into the open ocean, huddled around our instructor for a quick briefing...then down we went.

Our our first dive was at a reef called Creche which is a 12-metre spot and we stayed under for about 40 minutes. There was some hectic surge and we (the trainees) were being shoved all over the place ...but it was fun. I can't tell you the names of the fish I saw, because I honestly don't know. I was too busy stressing that a shark might appear. It didn't.

Dive two was at Drop Zone. Also a fairly shallow reef but the visibility was much better here than at Creche the morning. The rest of the day we were stukkened and took long naps then walked around some more.

Day 6:

Today we did a reef called Steps and this one's boat ride made everyone seasick. It was gross. The second dive was Doodles - definitely the favourite spot for us. Our cameraman saw a leatherback turtle (we didn't see it though) and we saw potato bass and other fun-looking fish, stingrays and a barracuda.

The dive board.

Supper at Fishmonger

Day 7: We did our fifth and final dive Saturday morning and chose to go to Doodles again...and then the final exam. The dive was good and I was sort of relieved that we finished the four and got one extra.

Exams

And then....

Certified!!

Day 8: After breakfast we paid our bills and said our goodbyes.

Now: I'm a certified Open Water Diver...and I haven't dived since...ha ha. I'm hoping to add another dive to my log book soon. I didn't pop that many nerve-calming pills to end up a non-diver!

Us and the DevOcean staff and two other divers


Amien, Traci, Lea (instructor), me, Faaiq, Chadre (Dive master)

The market

Pics by Amien Phillips, Fatima Jakoet and open water shots are video stills.

Gift wrapping idea

2012-01-27T15:57:00.000+02:00

Use old patterns to wrap gifts and follow through with the theme by adding buttons, ribbon with tacking or even ribbon that looks like measuring tape (available at many craft stores).Attach the gift tag with a safety pin.

ET Rock

2012-01-27T15:44:00.000+02:00

If you're ever on your way to Betty's Bay or anywhere in that vicinity, look out for the rock that looks like ET.

Me in USA Today

2011-10-19T09:34:00.000+02:00

See under Atlantic Express Cake & Coffee Train

For the full piece: http://traveltips.usatoday.com/early-breakfast-restaurants-sea-point-near-cape-town-101244.html

Cafeen

2011-09-29T16:33:00.000+02:00

I recently had lunch (and then breakfast) at a café I'd highly recommend. Caféen, on the corner of Hampstead and 3rd Avenue in Harlfield village is a quaint spot with some quirky decor and a cosy yet airy feel. Lunch was a basic toasted cheese sandwich and some coffee. The sandwich was huge.

For both visits I didn't wait more than five minutes for my food - and for breakfast we were more than ten guests at one table - and the rest of the place was quite busy. For breakfast I had a salmon, cream cheese, spring onion and scrambled egg croissant. Yum! There's a spacious outside section and a smaller smoking section (outside) and the inside's got all sorts of rustic items and fun decor. We had a girls' breakfast there and were well looked after and had no issues with any orders. Most of us had the salmon croissant because there wasn't too much that catered for non-bacon-eating guests, but there were enough options to keep us happy. I think this dish just sounded the most mmm.

Our Cafeen-themed reminder-invitations:

www.cafeen.co.za

RIP Busta

2011-09-28T13:08:00.000+02:00

Today I dedicate my blog to my Busta, who died suddenly yesterday :-( I hope it doesn't rain in heaven because the other dogs are going to get REALLY annoyed with him fighting with the raindrops :-)

You had a good 12 years. Rest in peace my baba.

2007

2008

Girly stuff

2011-08-11T15:35:00.000+02:00

I'm having a bad day so I might as well cheer myself up with some fun stuff that made me smile.


marysiaswimstore.com

garnethill.com

Cupcakes by Lameez Karriem

bidorbuy.co.za

polyvore.com

Layzee Bites, Rondebosch East


blogs.babble.com

img.photobucket.com

My favourite pic today

2011-07-05T09:52:00.000+02:00

Thanks for the laugh, Candice

Victoria Street Market

2011-06-21T13:00:00.000+02:00

Some reviews claim it's like stepping into another world, other sites tell you it's a must-see. I beg to differ. I visited the Victoria Street Market (in all fairness, I didn't bother to check out the fresh fish/ food side - so that could be awesome) and was a tad disappointed.

It's not like stepping into another world...at all. It almost like stepping into China Town in Ottery or Sable Square. A series of shops selling brassware, cheap Chinese and Taiwanese hair accessories, make-up, bags and of course, spices. I love China Town - this doesn't even come close when it comes to clothing and other fun stuff. If you search for the market on the Internet, you're bound to find close-ups of spices and all sorts of fun stuff. Naturally, after doing my searching, I was excited to see what it's all about. Now, I could be completely wrong and may have only seen a fraction on the place, so if you've been, please let me know that I went to the wrong entrance or building altogether.

This was the most exciting stall I saw

I expected to see saris and scarves and other more interesting things. Anyway, I managed to leave with KFC and Nando's spices - so it wasn't a complete waste. I too am guilty of only taking close-up shots of the spices, simply because there was nothing else appealing to take pics of...and after the spice man cautioned me and suggested I don't walk around with my camera so freely, my picture-taking came to an end.

If you're in Durban, visit the market and let me know what you think. As a an avid 'marketeer', I expected a bit more.

It's on the corner of Queen and Victoria Streets and operates Monday to Saturday from 08h00 to 18h00 and Sundays from 10h00 to 16h00

I dare you to try this spice

My favourite joke today

2011-06-14T13:00:00.001+02:00

A weekend in Knysna

2011-05-26T13:04:00.000+02:00

Seeing that I wrote about my cheetah encounters, I figured I might as well mention my elephant encounter as well. But then I realised I might as well say something about my entire Knysna trip, where it all happened. My friend and I went to Knysna for a weekend to see what the town has to offer besides oysters.

First stop was a restaurant called The Firefly Eating House. I won't go into too much detail but if you're ever in Knysna, give it a visit (you can read my review if you click on the link). Then off to check into our accommodation.

The hot chocolate - sugar, cream, chocolate lolly and hot milk. Mix it up!

We stayed at Under Milkwood, a self-catering lodge near the Knysna Heads. We had a four-sleeper wooden cabin, fully equipped and very cosy.

We chose to share the twin room instead of each having a bedroom

The next morning we had to be up early for breakfast at Ile de Pain on Thesen Island - about 10 minutes from where we were staying.

Breakfast was mmmmm! We ordered a cream cheese, salmon, capers and egg croissant and coffee. Heavenly.

Nisha and I at Ile de Pain

Check out all the breads and pastries..mmm

After breakfast it was off to Tenikwa Wildcat and Wildlife Sanctuary in Plett where we had some time the wild ones, and you can read about that and see pics here and here.

When we were done it was too early for lunch so we stopped on the way back to Knysna at a roadside rendezvous called The Heath. It's a farmstall, cafe, eagle sanctuary, play area, furniture store and nursery all on one site. Our 15-minute stop turned into an hour of browsing all the handmade soaps, jewellery, decorated pebbles, bags and endless amounts of other fun stuff.

I bought some message pebbles.

This fudge is goooood

I wonder who lives there. He probably never 'leaves'. GET IT? Hahaha

For lunch we went to a place called 34 Degrees South (but the name just says 34 South) at the Waterfront. This place has everything you can possibly think of ordering. Ok, not everything, but pretty close. As all their banners say, they're 'Not exactly a restaurant, not exactly a deli, not exactly a bar....' I'm not sure what exactly they are but either way, they filled the gap in my tummy. My friend had fish and chips and I ordered sushi with a side order of fries and extra mayo.

The rest of the day we relaxed and waited for our lagoon cruise for dinner. It was supposed to be a drinks and oysters cruise but we don't drink or eat oysters so we just chilled and waited for the dinner part. It's weird that we didn't do that much but both of us were super tired. We tried to take a nap before the cruise but it wasn't long before we had to rise and shine and head to the waterfront again.

I think it's called a paddle cruiser

That's Knysna Heads in the background...and me in the middle

Next day.. yes...breakfast again. This time at East Head Cafe. I love this place. It's right at the tip of the Eastern Head (duh) which is opposite the other Knysna Head. I took lots of pics of this cafe because I think it's an awesome spot for breakfast and lunch and the decor is simple but fantastic!

Outside seating

Simple, elegant interior - ok, ignore the bottles in corner

My omelette

After breakfast we headed for the Knysna Elephant Park. You can read about my experience here or just have a look at these pics. They pretty much tell you what we did.

He's so cute!

Feeding the ellies before our ride

That was the last of our activities before we had to make our way back home. But first we stopped at the Garden of Eden for a stroll in the forest and then further on we took a bit of a detour to Noetzie. We were told there are all sorts of castles there. We got there, after walking down millions of stairs (which we had to climb again on the way back). It wasn't quite what I expected. They weren't really castles, they were just houses and some B&Bs that are made to look like castles. The beach was beautiful though.

It was a good trip. I've been to Knysna before but really didn't do much while I was there (the weather wasn't great). But next time I'm there I'll definitely visit the restaurants again and maybe go back to Tenikwa for a 'walk with cheetahs while they go for their morning/evening stroll'. It's 400 bucks - a bit steep, but when will I ever get to take a cheetah for a walk?

The view from Table Mountain

2011-05-25T17:03:00.000+02:00

It was really misty (not sure if I can call it foggy?) in Cape Town last week. I had to go to a launch on Table Mountain. The weather seemed miserable and I was a bit reluctant to go.

When the cable car reached the top, I can tell you my breath was literally taken away. OK, maybe that was because the air was cold and I was out of breath...but still. Even though the weather in the city was crappy, it was peaceful and beautiful above the clouds. Check it out:

Cheetah interaction

2011-05-25T15:57:00.000+02:00

Been a while since I've blogged. That's because I now have to blog for work as well, and it takes up quite a bit of time. So what have I been up to... quite a bit, and unfortunately I can't blog about them chronologically because I don't have time to think of their dates.

I hooked up with some cheetahs... twice! First was at the Tenikwa Wild Cat and Wildlife Sanctuary (Plett) and second at Cheetah Outreach at Spier (Stellenbosch). The Plett one involved a range of cats from caracals to cheetahs. They also have a leopard but he looks kinda scary. You can walk around in the various cats' enclosures and they roam around freely while you wet your pants. Kidding. It's not that scary. It's very exciting. The only enclosure we didn't go into was the leopard's den. He's a sneaky one.

The Spier visit was something I won in a Facebook competition. It included a cheetah interaction for me and a friend. Here we got to touch the cheetah...but he was lazy and not fazed by our presence.

Here are some pics.

Serval

The leopard

Cheetahs ignoring me

Meerkat showing off

Spier cheetah encounter

"I'll just take a nap while you 'interact' "

For more about the Tenikwa experience, click here

Harrie's Pancakes

2011-04-13T12:20:00.000+02:00

I've always heard about Harrie's Pancakes but I've never been or tried any. They've now moved from the Waterfront to Hout Bay and I happened to be in the area to check it out.

Credit: Taariq Mobara

The setup is awesome for summer, with outside tables and large patio umbrellas (and a little play section for kids). I'm not sure what the layout's like in winter. Because I had a fairly big lunch, I decided to share a pancake (they're a decent size). We ordered a really weird-sounding pannekoek - something like pancake with milktart custard. I don't even remember. I know it had something to do with milktart custard.

Now, as far as I know (and according to Wikipedia), a pancake is thin, flat and round. I'm not sure what they gave me but it definitely wasn't thin. But, pancake thickness argument aside, what they served was delicious. Is it a milktart, is it a pancake, what is it? That's kinda the feeling you get when you eat this one. It's really good, especially with the dollop of ice-cream they give.

It's in the Main Road in Hout Bay and there's off-street parking available.

Let's go bowling!

2011-04-13T11:43:00.000+02:00

Bowling's fun. I've done it a few times before and I'm pretty bad at it...until a few days ago. I won my first bowling match at Let's go Bowling in Claremont.

I don't think any of us know the trick to bowling, we all just kind of let the ball slip off our fingers and off it goes. Sometimes you're lucky, sometimes not. I don't know how the scoring works but at the end of the game the highest score wins. Pretty straight forward.

One game can last about one hour and a maximum of eight people can play and it's R40 a person. Wear comfortable shoes that won't make you slip.

And off we go

Fun-coloured bowling balls

High five!

Random artwork in the arena

Cupcakes Galore

2011-03-31T15:48:00.000+02:00

Just had to share this. It's the coolest thing from Woolies. Eight cupcake capsules with jelly beans inside. Nom nom! I don't like jelly beans, but I had to buy this just for the fun packaging!

Bubble balls at the Getaway Show

2011-03-28T23:18:00.000+02:00

I went to the Getaway Show over the weekend and tried out the Bubble Balls. Basically you climb into a plastic deflated transparent ball and let them blow it up. Once the ball's totally inflated, you'll look like you're in a bubble...and off you go onto the water. It's lots of fun but can get really hot (if it's a sunny day). It's really hard to keep your balance and a lot of the time you'll look and feel like a hamster on its wheel. You'll fall from side to side, upside down and spin all around (sounds like a rhyme) and after 5 minutes you could feel a little nauseous. If you do it with friends you can play bumper bubbles - that will keep you laughing all the way the way through.